Nuseed, Agrisoma carinata distribution agreement takes flight

By Agrisoma Biosciences Inc. | February 07, 2018

Agrisoma Biosciences Inc. and Nuseed confirm they are in discussions to develop a distribution agreement for carinata seed. This announcement follows last week’s world first transpacific Qantas Airways flight powered by biojet fuel made from carinata developed by Agrisoma. Both events signal the beginning of an exciting new market for Australian growers.

“Qantas’ partnership with Agrisoma marks a big step in the development of a renewable jetfuel industry in Australia—It is a project we are really proud to be part of as we look at ways to reduce carbon emissions across our operations,” says Alison Webster, Qantas International CEO.

This year Agrisoma’s second phase of carinata research and development is set to optimize the crop’s agronomic performance, and pre-commercial activities are anticipated as early as 2019.

Carinata, a type of non-food grade mustard seed, has numerous benefits for Australian growers: - resilient crop; increases productivity of marginal land - water and input efficient - decreases erosion, conserves nutrients and improves soil health - meal is feed quality and high in protein - uses the same equipment and agronomic knowledge as canola and wheat production

“Carinata is grown and harvested much like canola. With Nuseed we have a seed distribution partner with agronomic knowledge, connection and commitment to Australian growers, plus expertise in production from grower to processor,” says Agrisoma CEO Steve Fabijanski. “Nuseed is the canola leader and an ideal distribution partner in Australia, they also have a global presence in other key regions.”

The Agrisoma carinata distribution letter of intent complements Nuseed’s own research and development programs for their three core crops. “Plant traits have amazing potential to address many critical issues like improved nutrition, sustainability, and energy. We are working globally to realize this potential through strategic partnerships and our own canola, sorghum and sunflower R&D programs,” says Nuseed Global Business Leader Brent Javra.